The heavy iron door creaked open as Belle stepped into the mansion, her eyes immediately widening in delight at the grand sight before her. "There is always a difference between the boss and his employees," she remarked, her voice tinged with awe.
Coco, following closely behind, nodded in agreement. "It sure is," she said, her eyes also taking in the lavish surroundings.
Anne shrugged and said, "Our apartment is not that bad."
Belle turned to her friend, her eyes twinkling. "But it cannot be compared to this beauty in front of us," she insisted.
Anne rolled her eyes, unable to suppress a smile as Eleanora, the housekeeper, led them to the living room.
Noah was seated in an armchair, a book resting on his knee. He looked up as they entered, a slight smile playing on his lips.
"Mr Ashvery," Anne greeted him, her tone cool but cordial.
Noah smiled at Anne and said, "You shouldn't have come here. Richmond is not around."